Bulwark Takes Female Heroes vs. Trump’s War on “Woke”
May 2, 2025
Retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling, who commanded during the Iraq surge, discusses the vital Women, Peace, and Security initiative. He highlights its importance for women's safety in conflict zones and the ongoing debate over its funding. The conversation reveals the empowering story of an Iraqi female radio host who played a pivotal role in counterinsurgency. Hertling also critiques current military strategies, arguing for a more inclusive approach to peacebuilding and a recognition of women's critical contributions in defense.
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Bipartisan Support for Women’s Security Program
- The Women, Peace, and Security Program, rooted in a UN initiative, gains bipartisan support including Donald Trump and Ivanka Trump.
- The program safeguards women in combat zones and integrates their perspectives into military strategy.
Success of Women's Police Academy in Iraq
- Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling led a conference for 400 Iraqi women during the Iraq surge of 2007-8 to address female suicide bombers.
- Training female police officers stopped 19 suicide vest attacks, breaking an insurgent network exploiting cultural taboos against male searches of women.
Broaden Definition of Military Lethality
- Secretary Hegseth’s narrow definition of lethality overlooks the broad strategic value of alliances and diversity.
- Military effectiveness requires understanding varied contributions beyond mere physical strength.